Placer RCD and Lincoln Salt Mine Partner to Improve Food Security with New Urban Orchard

The Placer Resource Conservation District (Placer RCD) and the Lincoln Salt Mine are proud to announce the establishment of a new urban orchard at the Lincoln Salt Mine Thrift Store in Lincoln, CA. This orchard, funded by a National Association of Conservation Districts (NACD) Urban & Community Grant awarded to Placer RCD in 2023, aims to provide fresh, nutritious produce to the community through the Lincoln Salt Mine’s food pantry, directly supporting families in need.

The Lincoln Salt Mine, a faith-based non-profit organization, serves 1,800 families in Lincoln and Sheridan, California. With a commitment to ensuring no individual or family in the area goes hungry, the Lincoln Salt Mine’s partnership with Placer RCD will help fulfill its mission by transforming underutilized urban spaces into a source of fresh fruit. Twelve citrus and pomegranate plants, chosen for their long harvest season, shelf stability, and nutritional value, were planted to enhance food security and improve access to healthy food options.

“This orchard is an incredible example of how conservation can directly support community needs,” said Andrew Justus-Fritz, Community & Conservation Director at Placer RCD. “By combining our efforts with the Lincoln Salt Mine, we’re revitalizing urban land and enhancing its ability to serve those who need it most.”

Stephen Hay, Operations Manager at the Lincoln Salt Mine, expressed his gratitude for the collaboration: “Our goal has always been to support and uplift our community. Thanks to Placer RCD’s support, we now have an orchard that will bring fresh produce to our pantry and make a real difference in people’s lives.”

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For more information about the Urban and Community Program with the Placer RCD, please click here.